By Jess
28th April, 2008
Why do I think Zulu Graphics is the best screen printer in Newcastle? Last blog I discussed a few reasons we can maintain our high screen printing standards. This time I would like to explore the way we communicate with you, our customers.
Second Challenge - Telecommunications - We Answer!
Firstly, we answer the phone. This might sound like a simple thing, but many screen printers do not take the time to answer the phone. We do. If you have an enquiry or you are after a quote, we are only a phone call away. In fact, we make sure that throughout the week we answer the phone consistently; polite and informative. We listen to what you, our customers, are saying and provide you with accurate, reliable answers.
Secondly, we answer our emails. Many screen printing companies have email addresses on their website or business cards but don't utilize them. Either they don't check them at all or don't check them regularly. We have someone on the other end of our main email address almost all day. This means we are able to respond to your emails within moments of receiving them! Whilst we can't always offer instantaneous responses, we do reply to all emails within one working day at the latest.
Thirdly, we answer our online enquiries. I am a bit of a nerd. I frequently send enquiries to all sorts of companies via online forms. Far less frequently do I get a response. This is disappointing because it would seem to me that if the customer has decided to take the time to submit an enquiry, it would be only fair to return the time in a response. As such, I make sure this occurs with our own online enquires. All of these enquires are forwarded to our main email address which allows us to respond quickly.
Fourthly, we answer our fax. It wasn't that long ago that faxes were fashionable. Most of our artwork was received via fax (yes, on that thin white paper in black, lined ink!) Most of our invoices were sent via fax. With the implementation and increase in popularity of the email, the fax has almost become extinct. We have chosen to keep the beast alive! We know that many of our customers still use faxes as their main form of electronic communication and we respect their decision to do so. Whilst we enjoy being e-savvy and i-savvy, we also don't want to discriminate any of our customers. As such, we respond to faxes for quotes, artwork specifications and general enquiries as quickly as we do emails or online enquiries.
We continually improve upon these methods of communication. Like all technology, telecommunications is continually evolving and we, in our understanding of this evolution, are alert for new ideas and innovations.
We answer - does your screen printer?
The challenge still stands with no contenders - Zulu Graphics is the best screen printer in Newcastle.
Labels: Best Screen Printer in Newcastle, Challenge, Emails, Faxes, Online Enquiry, Phone, Quality, Telecommunications
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Monday, April 28, 2008 at 2:50 AM.
23rd April, 2008
I have been asked on numerous times - why do you think Zulu Graphics is the best screen printer in Newcastle? I have decided to set you, our consumers, a challenge. Find me a better screen printer in Newcastle and I will relinquish our title.
First Challenge - Basic Printing Skills
At Zulu Graphics we take pride in our screen printing; it isn't about the money, it is about achieving our high standards on every job.
Firstly, we watch our coating.
What does this mean? Basically, when you screen print something you generally give it one or two coats. If we simply wanted to make money and did not care about the screen print quality, we could always do one coat of ink. But one coat isn't enough - particularly on dark garments. If you are screen printing a light colour onto a dark garment (say white ink on black t-shirts) one coat most commonly results in the print appearing "faded". This is good if you are trying to achieve that vintage look but if you aren't, you will be as disappointed with the one coat as we are. We prefer to keep our customers happy.
Secondly, we know our inks.
As in any job, there are certain things you learn while you work. Having been in the screen printing industry for 22 years now, we have learnt alot. Perhaps the most important thing is using the correct ink for the material. There are two basic types of ink: water-based and plastisol. Certain fabrics allow for a better screen print according to the type of ink you use. Whilst plastisol is more expensive, in some cases water-based just isn't sufficent. Unlike other screen printers, we do not charge extra according to the type of ink used, we charge only according to quality. To adhere to our high standards of screen printing, we make careful and informed decisions about the type of ink we use on your job and as such achieve the best results.
Unsure about whether your current screen printer knows their inks? Or think your print has too few coats?
Don't be afriad to ask. If you are unsatisfied with the answer, come and talk to me.
I will prove, over the next week, that Zulu Graphics is the best screen printer in Newcastle.
Bring on any contenders!
Labels: Best Screen Printer in Newcastle, Challenge, Promotion, Screen printing
1 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at 3:24 AM.
By Jess
21st April, 2008
It might seem attractive to order your screen printing from overseas; mostly (and I believe only) because it is cheaper.
My advice would be not to. Sure, you think, Jess would just say that because she would rather us buy her screen printing. Well, yes, I do think you should purchase your screen printing through us. But I have a few valid reasons.
Firstly, while it may be cheaper per garment to order from overseas, watch out for the monster freight! It doesn't matter if you are paying $2.00 per shirt (screen printed and all) if the freight is costing you $200! We have reasonable freight charges - that is, if you don't pick it up from our showroom.
Secondly, if quality is crucial, don't risk it. We have seen too many screen printed garments from overseas which haven't been cured properly. What does this mean? Basically, they don't put the ink through a hot enough dryer or they haven't mixed their fixer in properly. How would you find this out? Though the print looks good on first sight, it will start to wash out within the first or second wash. And you will regret that overseas purchase if it only lasts one wash...
Thirdly, time is always ticking. Most overseas screen printing companies have a turn around time of six weeks minimum. This is a whole four weeks longer than our normal two week turnaround. How come our timeframe is shorter? We don't need to account for weeks of travel on a ship, most obviously. It is not as though it takes longer because they are doing a better quality screen print.
Fourthly, long distance relationships rarely last. Say you do have a problem with the screen printing washing out - what are you going to do about it? Send it back overseas and demand they fix their mistake? Not likely. If the freight monster didn't bite you on the way over, it certainly will on the way back. We are more than happy to attempt to fix their disappointing screen printing attempt, but we would rather save you the money. Further, if you aren't happy with our quality, we will look into it immediately.
I am not completely against overseas screen printers; they are developing the latest screen printing technology and have been responsible for many of the recent improvements. Also, there are a few companies who provide reliable, long term screen printing. But you are still restricted by time, the ocean, perhaps the language and the freight.
My advice would be to come and talk to me about it first. Even if you would like to ask a few questions with regards to the screen printing methods and the process, so you can understand exactly why it takes them four weeks longer, I don't mind talking it through with you.
You never know, you might be surprised at how knowledgeable we are about screen printing. After all, it is what we do for a living.
Labels: Freight, Overseas Printing, Quality, Screen printing
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Sunday, April 20, 2008 at 11:47 PM.
By Jess
21st April, 2008
Moving is always hard; you try and get everything into a position that seems more like home. For the first few months you might make a few changes until you can look at it and smile and know you are home.
Making a website is much the same.
I thought I was satisifed with the way our home page was set out, but it didn't sit right. I had a few visitors through, who (as all visitors do), offered their varied opinion of what would look best.
As such, you could say it was a collaborative effort. The Home Page has been rearranged. And it feels more like home.
Don't you think?
Labels: Screen printing, Website Updates
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on at 11:36 PM.
By Jess
20th April, 2008
I have just uploaded two profiles to the Who page so that you can learn more about what makes us tick as individuals.
I believe it is important to trust the people who are doing your printing and decorating. Sometimes, it is hard to look at a website and realise there are people behind it. Zulu Graphics is a screen printing company built by people for people -so why not get to know those people?
Labels: Screen printing, Website Updates
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Saturday, April 19, 2008 at 5:48 PM.
By Jess
Friday, 18th April, 2008
Day 5 - Screen printed?
My final day with Sunny has come (and it is again raining).
I have decided that I will approach Sunny again later in the year when it is a bit warmer to get an accurate answer to whether or not she is "cool-dri".
Interesting Fact: Little to no ironing required. I didn't hang this polo on a coat hanger at all this week; I treated it with as little care as possible and still, even after being scrunched in my bag for an hour, it remains creaseless. The polyester just snaps back to place when you wear it :) What a bonus!
The vital question (particularly for those who are interested in our 20 4 20 promotion) is how well does it screen print?
According to Mark, our head screen printer, "Very well". The ink, water-based or plastisol, adheres beautifully to the 100% polyester and offers a crisp finish. Occasionally, finer prints can appear a little fuzzy as a result of the mesh effect alot of the cool dry materials have. If you are unsure, just ask us. We print hi vis garments every week and know which ones print better than others. Johhny Bobbin's 6HVPS generally allows for a smooth, consistent and professional screen print.
And so it is; Sunny the Lime/Royal Hi Vis and I are finished for a while. It will be sad to leave her behind, but I look forward to my next test drive...
Want to know about how a garment wears? Ask me; I'll wear it for you :)
Labels: Blinded by the Bright, Hi Vis Polos, Screen printing, Test, Workwear
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Friday, April 18, 2008 at 6:31 PM.
By Jess
Thursday, 17th April, 2008
Day 4 - Washed and Worn
After washing this polo, whom I have affectionately nicknamed Sunny, I have found that after a good wash (and I washed it with the rest of our washing, in a machine) it is much more comfortable. In fact, it is as comfortable as a t-shirt (except for the buttons at the collar).
Interesting Fact: The most common colour combination bought in hi vis polos at Zulu Graphics is the lime / navy short sleeve. Landscapers prefer to get the lime/bottle, whilst mechanics purchase the orange / navy.
Interesting Fact: The most common print combination is a small left chest print and a full back print and most commonly these prints are in the contrast colour (the colour of the front panel).
Innovation: Tomorrow is high-five-a-hi-vis-guy day; if you see anyone wearing hi vis, I challenge you to high five them and tell them how good a job they are doing. Be sincere and make that person's day!
Tomorrow I will investigate how screen printing works on hi vis (in particular, JB's Dri 100% polyester polos).
From Sunny and I - Goodbye.
Labels: Blinded by the Bright, Hi Vis Polos, Promotion, Test, Workwear
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Thursday, April 17, 2008 at 1:08 AM.
By Jess
Wednesday 16th April, 2008
Day 3 - Wet Weather
And on the third day it rained. And was freezing.
But the polo still wears well. It is surprisingly bright in a lasting way.
Interesting fact: Speaking with other embroiderers today, we have agreed that the JB's Dri (and in fact all cool dry material) is relatively easy to embroider and ends up looking quite spiffy. As they are 100% polyester, the embroidery adheres well.
Interesting fact: With our 20 4 20 promotions, it is cheaper to get your garment screen printed instead of embroidered.
Looking forward to a brighter tomorrow
Jess
Labels: Blinded by the Bright, Hi Vis Polos, Test, Workwear
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Wednesday, April 16, 2008 at 1:40 AM.
By Jess
Tuesday, 15th April, 2008
Day 2 - Wet
It has been raining and cold all day today. So in response to the many questions we get about whether or not these shirts are cool - indeed, if you do not wear a jacket, they are quite cool in cold conditions.
If it were sunny, it would be interesting to see how the UPF works. I suppose you wouldn't really "see" it working... perhaps you are wondering "what does UPF mean?" Let me investigate.
UPF is the Ultraviolet Protection Factor. Basically, the 50 + UPF that this garment has means that by wearing this polo I am protecting myself against the dangerous Ultraviolet radiation the sun rays contain. And 50+ is classed as Excellent Protection; think of it like Superman standing between you and those UVs!
Interesting fact: As it says on the JB's tag - "Remember that the garment only protects the skin it covers." Good call guys :)
Also, when you are wearing hi vis, it is like you are a magnet for other people wearing hi vis; I walked into Andy's Takeaway (on Sandgate Rd, Shortland - great food, great people!) to find myself waiting with not one, not two, but FIVE other people wearing hi vis.
Interesting fact: I feel a strange affinity with council workers.
Catchya on the bright side (hopefully the sun will come out tomorrow!)
Jess
Labels: Blinded by the Bright, Hi Vis Polos, Test, Workwear
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Monday, April 14, 2008 at 11:16 PM.
By Jess
Monday, 14th April, 2008
Day 1 - Unwashed.
I have worn the hi vis polo all day; unwashed. My first impression is: wash before you wear.
It is a little stiff and uncomfortable; I will wash it tonight and hopefully the feel of the shirt will change.
Interesting fact: I chose to go with lime and royal for colour combinations as I have never sold one before (and frankly, they are very bright!). To my surprise, when I filled up with petrol this morning there were two men there also wearing the lime and royal hi vis. What are the chances!
Also, I went for my morning walk in this polo (to test its ability to quickly evaporate sweat - what the JB's Dri material does) and am unable to report any findings; it was so cold this morning I think my sweat turned to icicles. I will try again tomorrow morning.
Good deal: We are running a promotion for the next two weeks where you can buy 20 hi vis polos, just like the one I'm wearing, with a one colour print for only $20 including GST per garment. Bargain! Feel free to wait until the end of my test drive to order :)
Don't believe I am really wearing the polo? Feel free to come into our shop, without warning to check.
Catchya on the bright side,
Jess
Labels: Blinded by the Bright, Hi Vis Polos, Promotion, Test
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Sunday, April 13, 2008 at 11:35 PM.
By Jess
13th April, 2008
I am constantly being asked by customers about the wearability of our garments; are they comfortable? Are they cool? Do they wash well?
I have decided to test them out, starting with the Hi Vis polo. This is a popular product, due to the new work wear standards (they need to be bright so they can be seen easily) but just how cool is it?
Garment Code: 6HVPS or 6LPTS (Womens)
Garment Name: Traditional Short Sleeve High Vis Polo
Supplier: Johhny Bobbin
Official Website:
http://www.johnnybobbin.com/www/272/1001127/displayproduct/1012508.html
Quick Description:
50+ UPF Protection
Australian and New Zealand Saftey Standard Compliant
High Visibility
100% Polyester
JB's Dri
Colour Combination: Lime/Black, Lime/Navy, Lime/Bottle,
Lime/Royal, Lime/Maroon, Orange/Black, Orange/Navy
Testing Conditions: 1 week of wear, worn and washed for 5 working days undergoing standard duties.
Come in this week and be blinded by the bright!
Labels: Blinded by the Bright, Hi Vis Polos, Test, Workwear
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Saturday, April 12, 2008 at 6:50 PM.
By Jess
8th April, 2008
This week we screen printed a two colour job. Big deal; we print two colour jobs nearly every day.
But it was a big deal - it was a big print area - 52cm wide by 62 cm high!
How did we do it?
Firstly, we used very large screens (in comparison to our normal screens which maximum print is about 32cm wide by 48cm high).
The boys also built a special hinge (which you can see in the left side of the photo) and attached it to one of our tables to achieve the right angle and area for printing.
The pieces of material were lined up with an image on the table to ensure the two colours would be in line (as each colour was printed in a separate run).
A big squeegee was used to apply the pressure, and it took strength to equally apply the pressure for the entire length of the screen.
And I am happy to say, it all went swimmingly!
We successfully screen printed nearly 100 pieces of fabric to be sewn together to make uniforms. This technique allows for a really big print, as the material is sewn up after being printed- you aren't limited by seams.
In fact, you are really only limited by the size of the fabric; we can screen print anything!
Labels: Photo, Print size, Screen printing
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Monday, April 7, 2008 at 3:33 PM.
By Jess
5th April, 2008
Let's take a jump back in time...
The year is 2006.
Brokeback Mountain won best picture and Superman Returns.
Melbourne hosted the Commonwealth Games.
Brothers and Sisters was born. So was Ugly Betty.
West Coast Eagles and the Broncos were premiers. So was Morris Iemma
I was in year 12. We had a fluoro day. It was not fashionable...and fluoro was really hard to find.
Since 2006, fluoro seems to have taken a big fashionable leap into department stores. You can buy fluoro everything from almost anywhere and you can wear it wherever and whenever you want.
Now, Ramo has released the fluoro hoodie in lime, hot pink and yellow. Why not check it out here?
They have also just introduced a wide range of hoodies for the 2008 Winter season.
I am going to order a fluoro hoodie... you never know when I might be crossing the road in the dark and be saved by the brightness of my fleecy.
And it never hurts to look on the bright side :)
Labels: Catalogues, New product, Ramo, Website Updates
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Friday, April 4, 2008 at 6:51 PM.
By Jess
3rd April, 2008
I have heard that a couple of people are having trouble finding there way around the new website (we have changed a few of the navigation names), so I have uploaded a sitemap to make it easier.
You can get to the sitemap by clicking here. You can also look at it by clicking on a link from the home page.
It includes what is on a few of the key pages (eg. what happens when you click on "What", what is in screen printing).
If you are still having trouble, why not let me know what the problem is and I'll see if I can sort it out.
Labels: Sitemap, Website Updates
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Wednesday, April 2, 2008 at 8:47 PM.
By Jess
2nd April, 2008
Our newsletter release was published on the Wide Format Online website.
Our first "press release"!
You can view it by clicking here.
It contains quotes from both Mark and Diana about our business and the launch of the newsletter -
"We have launched our website so that we can supply our quality products to a wider range of people... " - Diana, read more -->
"It can be a challenge to follow a design from artwork through to final print and achieve quality at each step of the way..." - Mark, read more -->
Wide Format Online also sponsored our latest newsletter.
Labels: Press, Set In Print
0 Comments Published by Jess, Zulu Warrior on Tuesday, April 1, 2008 at 10:07 PM.